A republic and member of the Commonwealth, the Seychelles consists of about 100 islands widely scattered over the western Indian Ocean. The main island of Mahé is 1,800 km (1,100 mi) from the east coast of the African continent. Area: 455 sq km (176 sq mi). Pop. (1995 est.): 75,000. Cap.: Victoria. Monetary unit: Seychelles rupee, with (Oct. 6, 1995) a free rate of SR 4.84 to U.S. $1 (SR 7.65 = £1 sterling). President in 1995, France-Albert René.

Seychelles sustained a reasonable rate of growth during 1995, although unemployment, at more than 22%, appeared to be relatively permanent. International debts, at $147.2 million, were less than half the gross national product ($376 million), while per capita income at $5,450 placed the islands well into the middle-income group of countries. Petroleum products accounted for more than 55% of export earnings, with tuna as the second source of export income. Tourism, however, was more important as a source of income than either petroleum or tuna. Britain was Seychelles’ principal trading partner for both imports and exports.

Seychelles continued its attempt to establish the archipelago as an international business centre. New laws were passed that provided tax breaks and reductions in offshore licensing fees. A law passed in November granting immunity from prosecution in criminal proceedings--including extradition--in exchange for a $10 million investment in the Seychelles drew the attention of world law-enforcement agencies. The government also announced plans to move away from a welfare state by requiring payment for services that were once free. During 1994 Seychelles had implemented similar measures to improve the economy. Taxes on luxury goods were increased to discourage imports, and the port of Mahé was privatized, which resulted in the replacement of the state-owned Union Lighterage Co. by four firms specializing in separate activities--ship engineering, ship handling, and cargo handling. Guy Arnold

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island republic in the western Indian Ocean, comprising about 115 islands. The islands are home to lush tropical vegetation, beautiful beaches, and a wide variety of marine life. Situated between latitudes 4° and 11° S and longitudes 46° and 56° E, the major islands of...